Frictions involving Venezuela Escalate In the Wake of Reported Demand from Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish the presidency – and flee the country – at once.
Per accounts, the American president allegedly conducted a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a substantial deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can secure your safety and those closest to you, but you must leave the country now," Trump allegedly stated, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to step down immediately."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to step down right then and reportedly made a set of conditions, such as international immunity from prosecution and the right to cede political control while retaining control of the armed forces.
New Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Strain
This incident constitutes the most recent increase of tensions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly met with his top foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuela issue, though particulars of that discussion were not disclosed.
Key Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the army.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly stating, "I can't say it was successful or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released additional particulars about the matters discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which reportedly happened in the latter part of November.
